Up Close & Personal with Josh Kurtz

Jan 21, 2009

Today we meet up with junior captain Josh Kurtz. The 6'8 center
hails from Oak Ridge, North Carolina. Kurtz is an elementary
education major at Lees-McRae with plans to either teach or go to
divinity school after graduation. Join us as we get to know him Up
Close & Personal.

1. What made you decide to come to Lees-McRae
College? I decided to come to Lees-McRae College to
further my education and play the game that I love...
Basketball!

2. What are you most looking forward to this
season? I am most looking forward to playing with the new
and improved team. The coaches did a wonderful job of recruiting
this past year, and I am ready to play with the returning players,
upper-class recruits, and new freshmen.

3. In which part of the game does your strength
lie? The strength of my game lies in my communication
skills. Whether I am encouraging a teammate, calling out a play,
or just telling someone where to go...I believe communication is
one of the keys to success in the game of basketball.

4. What do you do to prepare yourself for a
game? Before a game, I focus on the game plan coach has
issued us and mentally focus on how to win, encouraging myself and
teammates.

5. Who has had the biggest impact on your basketball
career? My dad has had the biggest impact on my
basketball career. Ever since I was a little kid, he was always
shooting with me, encouraging me, and coaching me. He is my hero
and best friend.

6. What is your favorite part about being a member of the
Bobcat basketball team? My favorite part about being a
member of this basketball team is the friendships I have made over
the years I have been here. Even the basketball alumni who have
moved on still keep in touch with me on a regular basis. It is a
great feeling to know you are part of a family.

7. What is the biggest mental challenge you face on the
court? The biggest mental challenge I face on the court
is myself. That is why it is important to prepare myself for each
game and be fully aware of the game plan.

8. Who has been the biggest role model in your life?
How? Again, my father has been the biggest influence on
my personal life and basketball career. He has always been there
for me and has never forced anything on me that I did not want to
pursue. He is a great man of faith and is a wonderful family
man.

9. What is your idea of a perfect afternoon? My
idea of a perfect afternoon is playing some basketball, watching
college basketball on TV, and hanging out with my girlfriend.

10. If you could try something new today what would you
try and why? If I could try something new today, I would
try Turducken (the Turkey, duck, and chicken all in one).

11. Who is your favorite NBA player and why? My
favorite NBA player is Steve Nash. His work ethic and energy on
the floor is evident in every game, and I would love to receive
passes from him.